A WOMAN has described how youths armed with spades and glass bottles smashed up a tram in front of terrified school children.
The witness, who we have agreed not to name, told how passengers screamed and ducked for cover as the group boarded the tram and attacked three men.
"People were screaming, crying and trying to take cover under the seats," she told the Advertiser.
"At the time the tram was packed with school children and babies. One child was so afraid she was inconsolable.
"The police took 15 minutes to arrive and during this time the young boys continued to smash doors and windows with spades, traffic cones, glass bottles, wood, rocks and metal piping.
"It was terrifying and deeply distressing."
Four windows of the tram were smashed and the vehicle taken out of service after the attack at Wooodside tram stop shortly before 6pm yesterday (Thursday).
British Transport Police (BTP) were called to reports of the youths throwing objects at three men as they tried to leave the tram.
BTP officers stopped services between East Croydon and Woodside following the attack.
As well as investigating what happened, they will be visiting the tram stop today to provide visible reassurance.
It is not clear whether any arrests have been made. It does not appear anyone was injured.
Detective Inspector Ash Cooper said the investigation was in its "early stages", adding: "We're taking this assault very seriously.
"This must have been a frightening and upsetting experience for everyone on board at the time, and we will do everything in our power to identify those responsible.
"We would ask anyone who saw the incident take place to contact the police immediately."
Anyone with information is asked to call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B12/LSA or 25/04/2013.
Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Were you on board the tram? Did you see what happened? Contact gareth.davies@croydonadvertiser.co.uk
